Independent aspirant for Arua City Central Division Member of Parliament, Ronald Debo , has defended his decision to run independently, citing widespread irregularities during the July 17 NRM primaries, where he finished second with 3,391 votes behind incumbent MP Jackson Atima, who garnered 4,658 votes. Other contenders included Brian Godfrey Obiga with 664 votes and Swaleh Haruna with 488.
Speaking during the Arua City Central Division Parliamentary Debate hosted by NBS Television on Wednesday, Debo highlighted the significance of his campaign symbol—a ball, representing teamwork and collective effort.
“Solutions to Arua City’s challenges must be inclusive and community-driven,” he said, stressing the importance of collaboration in addressing socio-economic concerns.
Debo noted that youth unemployment remains a major issue in West Nile, linking it to historical instability and generational economic disadvantages.
Drawing on 15 years of experience at Arua Regional Referral Hospital, Debo criticized the overworked medical staff and pledged to push for better staffing, improved working conditions, and increased investment in regional health services. He also called for reforms to strengthen local schools and reduce the financial burden on families sending children out of West Nile for education.
Debo referenced political events in the region, including a recent visit by NUP presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine), noting the peaceful turnout despite isolated incidents.
Debo will face off against Jackson Atima (NRM), Jackson Obindu (NUP), Kassiano Wadri (ANT), Muzaid Khemis (FDC), and independent candidate Haddad Salim as Arua emerges as a key battleground ahead of the 2026 general elections.